Expect the Unexpected
by Karen Henson,
Grace Anglican Community
Little did I know when I traveled down a back road in Fulshear on a cold wet day, my life would take a turn I did not expect. As Christians who follow Jesus, why are we surprised when God does the unexpected on our journey with him?
We read in Proverbs 16:9, “The heart of man plans his ways, but the Lord establishes his steps.” We all want God to establish our steps and guide us on his path but then are often surprised when he does!
Two chained dogs were shivering from the cold without adequate shelter. I did something totally unplanned. I stopped the car, got out and knocked on the trailer door to ask if I could bring houses for the dogs. That day Covers for Critters was born. Along with a Christian friend, we started visiting back county roads of less privileged areas around us. We visited homes, providing housing and food for their animals. We have met wonderful people along the way. One family member commented that most people come and take from them, but we come and give. We always share that we are Christians, that we care and some long-term friendships have been made.
We became close to a family with 4 generations living in a small house and trailer. We have continued for three years providing needs for both the animals and the family. We have been there for death in their family as well as ours. A family member came to my daughter’s funeral and said, “baby, we are family!” It has been a privilege and a joy to pray with this family and for them. We have crossed economic and cultural lines to share life together.
Another great surprise came when a couple from Washington state adopted one of my favorite rescue pups. We stayed in touch sharing our dog stories. After mentioning I had a zoom Bible study, my new friend asked if she could join even though she was not a Texan. She became part of our community that studies and prays for each other weekly. She shared she has tears after each study and her faith was being revived. God used a dog rescue to bring us together. Who would ever have expected it? This spring I had the joy of meeting my friend and her husband face to face. There was joy and hugs all around.
Yes, God has and continues to do the unexpected in my life and I bet in yours too. We all have stories to tell of how God has surprised us when we least expected him. It certainly keeps life full of surprises and isn’t there joy knowing that God is guiding us along the path he has chosen for us. Let’s keep praying and expecting the unexpected on this great journey with God. Live the adventure!
“The heart of man plans his ways, but the Lord establishes his steps.” Proverbs 16:9
